Introduction
Summer is the perfect time to fire up the grill and enjoy delicious meals outdoors. Whether you’re hosting a backyard barbecue or simply enjoying a meal with your family, having a grill griddle can take your summer cooking to the next level. Walmart offers a wide range of grill griddles that are perfect for summer cooking. In this article, we will explore the best grill griddles available at Walmart and discuss why they are a must-have for summer cooking.
Why Grill Griddles are a Must-Have for Summer Cooking
Grill griddles offer several benefits that make them a must-have for summer cooking. First and foremost, they provide a large cooking surface that allows you to cook multiple items at once. This is especially useful when cooking for a large group of people or when you want to cook different types of food simultaneously. With a grill griddle, you can easily cook burgers, hot dogs, vegetables, and more all at the same time.
In addition to their large cooking surface, grill griddles also offer excellent heat distribution. This means that your food will cook evenly and you won’t have to worry about hot spots or uneven cooking. This is particularly important when grilling delicate foods like fish or vegetables, as they can easily stick to the grill grates or fall through the cracks. With a grill griddle, you can cook these foods with ease and confidence.
Top Features to Look for in Walmart’s Best Grill Griddles
When choosing a grill griddle, there are several key features to consider. First and foremost, you’ll want to look for a grill griddle with a non-stick surface. This will make it easier to cook and clean up after your meals. A non-stick surface also prevents food from sticking and ensures that your food cooks evenly.
Durability is another important feature to consider. You’ll want a grill griddle that is made from high-quality materials and can withstand high heat and frequent use. Look for grill griddles that are made from stainless steel or cast iron, as these materials are known for their durability.
Heat distribution is also crucial when choosing a grill griddle. You’ll want a griddle that distributes heat evenly across the cooking surface to ensure that your food cooks evenly. Look for grill griddles with multiple burners or heat zones to achieve optimal heat distribution.
Size and shape are also important factors to consider. The size of your grill griddle will depend on the amount of food you plan to cook and the number of people you’ll be serving. Consider the size of your grill griddle in relation to the size of your grill and the space you have available. The shape of your grill griddle will depend on your personal preference and the type of food you plan to cook. Some grill griddles have a rectangular shape, while others have a circular shape.
Lastly, consider the price range of the grill griddles available at Walmart. Set a budget for yourself and choose a grill griddle that fits within that budget. Keep in mind that higher-priced grill griddles often offer more features and better quality, but there are also affordable options available that still provide excellent performance.
How to Choose the Right Size Grill Griddle for Your Needs
When choosing the size of your grill griddle, there are several factors to consider. First and foremost, consider the amount of food you plan to cook and the number of people you’ll be serving. If you frequently host large gatherings or have a large family, you’ll want a grill griddle with a larger cooking surface. On the other hand, if you typically cook for a smaller group, a smaller grill griddle may be sufficient.
Consider the size of your grill and the space you have available. You’ll want to choose a grill griddle that fits comfortably on your grill and leaves enough space for you to maneuver and flip your food. Measure the dimensions of your grill and compare them to the dimensions of the grill griddles you are considering.
Examples of different sizes and their uses include:
– Small grill griddles: These are typically around 12 inches in size and are perfect for cooking for one or two people. They are also great for small grills or for adding an additional cooking surface to your existing grill.
– Medium grill griddles: These are typically around 16 to 20 inches in size and are suitable for cooking for a small family or a small gathering. They provide enough space to cook multiple items at once without taking up too much space on your grill.
– Large grill griddles: These are typically around 24 inches or larger and are ideal for cooking for a large group of people. They provide ample space to cook a variety of foods and are perfect for hosting backyard barbecues or parties.
Best Brands of Grill Griddles Available at Walmart
Walmart offers a variety of top brands when it comes to grill griddles. Some of the best brands available at Walmart include Blackstone, Cuisinart, and Lodge.
Blackstone is known for its high-quality grill griddles that are perfect for outdoor cooking. They offer a range of sizes and styles to suit different needs. Blackstone grill griddles are known for their durability, heat distribution, and non-stick surfaces.
Cuisinart is another top brand that offers a wide range of grill griddles. Cuisinart grill griddles are known for their high-quality construction and excellent performance. They offer a variety of sizes and styles to suit different needs and budgets.
Lodge is a well-known brand that specializes in cast iron cookware, including grill griddles. Lodge grill griddles are known for their durability and heat retention. They provide excellent heat distribution and are perfect for outdoor cooking.
When comparing these brands, consider factors such as price, size, features, and customer reviews to determine which brand is the best fit for your needs.
How to Properly Season and Maintain Your Grill Griddle
Properly seasoning and maintaining your grill griddle is essential to ensure its longevity and optimal performance. Seasoning your grill griddle creates a non-stick surface and helps prevent rust. Here are the steps to season your grill griddle:
1. Clean the grill griddle: Before seasoning, make sure your grill griddle is clean. Use a grill brush or scraper to remove any food particles or residue.
2. Apply oil: Apply a thin layer of cooking oil to the entire surface of the grill griddle, including the sides and corners. Use a paper towel or brush to evenly distribute the oil.
3. Heat the grill griddle: Preheat your grill griddle on medium-high heat for about 10 minutes. This will help the oil penetrate the surface and create a non-stick coating.
4. Repeat the process: After the initial seasoning, repeat the process 2-3 more times to build up the non-stick coating. Allow the grill griddle to cool between each seasoning.
To maintain your grill griddle, follow these tips:
– Clean the grill griddle after each use: Use a grill brush or scraper to remove any food particles or residue. If necessary, use warm soapy water and a sponge to clean the surface. Avoid using abrasive cleaners or metal utensils that can scratch the surface.
– Dry the grill griddle thoroughly: After cleaning, make sure to dry the grill griddle thoroughly to prevent rust. You can use a towel or paper towel to remove any excess moisture.
– Apply a thin layer of oil: After cleaning and drying, apply a thin layer of cooking oil to the grill griddle to prevent rust and maintain the non-stick coating. Use a paper towel or brush to evenly distribute the oil.
– Store the grill griddle in a dry place: When not in use, store the grill griddle in a dry place to prevent moisture and rust. You can also cover it with a grill cover or a cloth to protect it from dust and debris.
Delicious Summer Recipes to Cook on Your Grill Griddle
Now that you have your grill griddle ready, it’s time to start cooking some delicious summer recipes. Here are a few recipes for breakfast, lunch, and dinner that you can try on your grill griddle:
1. Breakfast: Grilled Pancakes with Fresh Berries
– Preheat your grill griddle on medium heat.
– In a bowl, mix together pancake mix, milk, and eggs until well combined.
– Pour the pancake batter onto the grill griddle, using a ladle or measuring cup to create evenly sized pancakes.
– Cook the pancakes for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until golden brown.
– Serve the pancakes with fresh berries and maple syrup.
2. Lunch: Grilled Vegetable Quesadillas
– Preheat your grill griddle on medium-high heat.
– Brush sliced bell peppers, zucchini, and onions with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
– Place the vegetables on the grill griddle and cook for 3-4 minutes on each side, or until tender and slightly charred.
– Remove the vegetables from the grill griddle and set aside.
– Place a tortilla on the grill griddle and sprinkle with shredded cheese.
– Top with grilled vegetables and another tortilla.
– Cook for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until the cheese is melted and the tortilla is crispy.
– Cut the quesadilla into wedges and serve with salsa and sour cream.
3. Dinner: Grilled Steak with Chimichurri Sauce
– Preheat your grill griddle on high heat.
– Season steak with salt, pepper, and your favorite steak seasoning.
– Place the steak on the grill griddle and cook for 4-5 minutes on each side, or until desired doneness.
– Remove the steak from the grill griddle and let it rest for a few minutes.
– Meanwhile, prepare the chimichurri sauce by blending together fresh parsley, garlic, red wine vinegar, olive oil, salt, and pepper.
– Slice the steak and serve with the chimichurri sauce.
These are just a few examples of the delicious recipes you can cook on your grill griddle. Get creative and experiment with different ingredients and flavors to create your own summer masterpieces.
Tips and Tricks for Cooking on a Grill Griddle
Cooking on a grill griddle requires some different techniques compared to traditional grilling. Here are a few tips and tricks to help you get the best results:
– Preheat the grill griddle: Make sure to preheat your grill griddle before cooking. This will ensure that the surface is hot and ready to cook your food evenly.
– Oil the grill griddle: Before cooking, lightly oil the grill griddle to prevent sticking. Use a brush or paper towel to evenly distribute the oil.
– Use high heat for searing: For meats and vegetables that require a nice sear, use high heat on your grill griddle. This will help create a caramelized crust and seal in the juices.
– Use medium heat for delicate foods: For delicate foods like fish or eggs, use medium heat on your grill griddle. This will prevent them from sticking and ensure even cooking.
– Flip food gently: When flipping food on the grill griddle, use a spatula or tongs to gently lift and turn the food. Avoid pressing down on the food, as this can cause it to lose moisture and become dry.
– Keep a clean cooking surface: As you cook, make sure to clean the grill griddle surface between batches or when necessary. This will prevent food from sticking and ensure even cooking.
– Let food rest: After cooking, let your food rest for a few minutes before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute and ensures a tender and flavorful result.
How to Clean and Store Your Grill Griddle for Longevity
Proper cleaning and storage are essential to ensure the longevity of your grill griddle. Here are the steps to clean your grill griddle:
1. Let the grill griddle cool: After cooking, let the grill griddle cool completely before cleaning.
2. Scrape off any food particles: Use a grill brush or scraper to remove any food particles or residue from the grill griddle surface.
3. Wash with warm soapy water: Fill a sink or basin with warm soapy water and use a sponge or cloth to clean the grill griddle. Avoid using abrasive cleaners or metal utensils that can scratch the surface.
4. Rinse and dry thoroughly: Rinse the grill griddle with clean water and make sure to dry it thoroughly to prevent rust. You can use a towel or paper towel to remove any excess moisture.
5. Apply a thin layer of oil: After cleaning and drying, apply a thin layer of cooking oil to the grill griddle to prevent rust and maintain the non-stick coating. Use a paper towel or brush to evenly distribute the oil.
When it comes to storing your grill griddle, follow these tips:
– Store in a dry place: When not in use, store the grill griddle in a dry place to prevent moisture and rust. You can also cover it with a grill cover or a cloth to protect it from dust and debris.
– Avoid stacking heavy objects on top: Avoid stacking heavy objects on top of the grill griddle, as this can cause damage or warping.
– Check for any signs of rust: Regularly inspect your grill griddle for any signs of rust. If you notice any rust spots, clean and re-season the grill griddle before using it again.
By following these cleaning and storage tips, you can ensure that your grill griddle stays in great condition for years to come.
Final Thoughts on Walmart’s Best Grill Griddles for Summer Cooking
In conclusion, having a grill griddle is a must-have for summer cooking. Walmart offers a wide range of grill griddles that are perfect for outdoor cooking. When choosing a grill griddle, look for features such as a non-stick surface, durability, heat distribution, size and shape, and price range. Consider the size of your grill griddle in relation to the amount of food you plan to cook and the number of people you’ll be serving. Some of the best brands available at Walmart include Blackstone, Cuisinart, and Lodge. Properly seasoning and maintaining your grill griddle is essential to ensure its longevity and optimal performance. Follow the steps to season and maintain your grill griddle, and enjoy cooking delicious summer recipes on your grill griddle.
If you’re looking for tips and techniques on cooking with a grill griddle, you might also be interested in learning how to master the art of outdoor cooking with an outdoor griddle. Check out this informative article on Cookedly: Master the Art of Outdoor Cooking with an Outdoor Griddle. It provides valuable insights and techniques for taking your outdoor cooking game to the next level.